MCCCD Program Description

Elementary Piano Pedagogy

Course: MUP140

First Term: 2024 Fall

Lecture 2.0 Credit(s) 2.0 Period(s) 2.0 Load
Subject Type: Occupational
Load Formula: S - Standard Load

Description: An overview of instructional methods, techniques, materials, and repertoire, intended for teaching piano students at the elementary level. Includes creating studio documents, teaching functional skills, peer piano teaching, and observing piano instruction.

MCCCD Official Course Competencies
1. Develop a personal teaching philosophy. (I) 2. Submit written observations of two beginning-level group piano classes and two private lessons at pre-arranged piano studios. (I, II, IV-VIII ) 3. Create a studio policy. (II) 4. Compare and contrast the categories of beginning students. (III, IV) 5. Discuss the application of various teaching and learning techniques and modes. (IV) 6. Demonstrate effective teaching of an elementary-level student. (V, VI, VII) 7. Participate in simulated in-class teaching activities. (V, VII, VIII, X) 8. Evaluate a variety of methods books for beginning students. (VI) 9. Select supplementary pieces appropriate for elementary students for performance in a class recital. (VI) 10. Summarize basic elements of piano teaching techniques. (VII, VIII, IX) 11. Explain strategies to prepare students for public performance. (XI) 12. Describe options for continued professional development. (XII)
MCCCD Official Course Competencies must be coordinated with the content outline so that each major point in the outline serves one or more competencies. MCCCD faculty retains authority in determining the pedagogical approach, methodology, content sequencing, and assessment metrics for student work. Please see individual course syllabi for additional information, including specific course requirements.

MCCCD Official Course Outline
I. Characteristics of effective piano teachers A. Personality B. Education C. Professionalism D. Teaching philosophy II. Establishing the studio A. Location and equipment B. Marketing and recruitment C. Studio policy and other business documents III. New students A. Interviewing and assessing musical capability. B. Special categories 1. Preschool children 2. School age children, K-12 3. Adults 4. Special learners IV. Teaching and learning modes A. Visual B. Auditory C. Kinesthetic V. First lesson with a new student A. Basic principles 1. Introducing the instrument 2. Musical alphabet and keyboard geography 3. Posture and hand position 4. Producing first sounds on piano B. Teaching music by rote VI. Literature for beginners: A. Methods books B. Supplementary repertoire C. Etudes D. Scales and exercises VII. Basics of piano technique A. Appropriate use of arms, hands, and fingers B. Articulation 1. Legato 2. Staccato C. Tone production D. Rhythm and counting E. Tempo F. Expression markings VIII. Practicing techniques IX. Memorization X. Group lessons A. Types B. Activities and games C. Planning XI. Recitals, exams, and competitions A. Planning and organizing beginner recitals B. Choosing a repertoire C. Performance preparation D. Managing stage fright XII. Professional development A. Piano conferences, master classes, and workshops B. College courses C. Magazines, books and online resources D. Concerts

MCCCD Governing Board Approval Date: February 27, 2024

All information published is subject to change without notice. Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of information presented, but based on the dynamic nature of the curricular process, course and program information is subject to change in order to reflect the most current information available.